Uncovering the Regulatory Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Colorectal Cancer Progression and Liver Metastasis: Implications for Therapeutic and Diagnostic Targeting

Abstract

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, largely due to metastasis, particularly to the liver, and the limited understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying this process. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of long non-coding

Methods: RNAs (lncRNAs) are key regulatory factors in CRC progression and metastasis to liver tissues. Using high-throughput sequencing and microarray approaches, we analyzed gene expression profiles from two independent lncRNA datasets to identify potential players involved in liver metastasis.

Results: Our findings revealed five lncRNAs—PROX1-AS1, SOX9-AS1, LINC01594, LINC01555, and APOA1-AS—previously known for their roles in CRC progression, now identified as being involved in the liver metastatic process. Additionally, 20 other lncRNAs, including VCAN-AS1, SYP-AS1, SMIM2-IT1, NCOA7-AS1, and LINC01449, were also identified as potential contributors to CRC liver metastasis. Notably, two lncRNAs—SATB2-AS1 and LINC01116—emerged as common candidates across both datasets, suggesting their significant role in promoting CRC metastasis to the liver. These two lncRNAs hold promise as molecular targets for therapeutic and diagnostic development.

Conclusion: Our study uncovers a novel layer of regulatory mechanisms involving lncRNAs in CRC liver metastasis. These findings advance our understanding of the molecular behaviors that drive CRC progression and offer new avenues for targeted therapeutic strategies and diagnostic tools, particularly for liver metastasis in CRC.